8 March 2023

2 minute read

By: Jim Long

$14.28 per ton is the current competitive edge in average finisher diet savings for (55-290 lbs.) Genesus pigs compared to those of PIC pigs. $7.53 per ton is the current competitive edge finisher diet savings for Genesus pigs compared to DNA pigs. $15.74 per ton is the current competitive edge in average finisher diet savings for Genesus pigs compared to those of Topigs Norsvin pigs.

We have done our homework. Over the past four years, we have completed 13 trials involving over 25,000 nursery and finisher pigs to determine our optimal dietary requirements. We have published the results in our Genesus Feeding Guidelines book and on our website www.genesus.com.

In this time of high feed costs, genetics that can use a lower cost for a ton of feed is an advantage. Genesus does that, but we were being continually challenged that our recommended rations were very different than all other genetics. How could Genesus use rations that were so much cheaper per ton? To help rectify that challenge Genesus engaged Kansas State’s (KSU) World recognized Swine Nutrition team to analyze all of Genesus’ extensive nutritional research. KSU found that our pigs are different and as such need to be fed differently and confirmed our feed rations are correct.

Link to the KSU Lysine Calculator for Genesus: KSU Lysine Calculator for Genesus Grow-Finish Pigs

The opportunity to feed a less expensive diet while still achieving excellent growth and lower mortality is a game-changer.

The following are four sample feeding programs; one based on our recommended specifications for Genesus finisher pigs, and the others based on PIC, DNA, and Topigs Norsvin recommended specifications for their pigs (55-290 lbs). These are the publicly published recommended rations for all four genetic companies, Genesus just input the data from our competitors and compared the costs.

What is $14.28 a ton worth to you a year?

Assumptions: Corn - $237/ton ($6.45 bushel); Soymeal 46.5% - $497/ton; Corn DDGS 7% - $275/ton; C.W. Grease - $1340/ton. See the tables below for diet details and costs.